Derby win built on Tomas Rosicky's wonder-goal in the second minute "will paper over a lot of cracks. I think we were better than them"

Tim Sherwood claimed his Tottenham side deserved to win Sunday's North London derby and insisted Arsenal’s away victory “papered over the cracks” in the Gunners' challenge for the Premier League crown.

Spurs boss Sherwood said after Tomas Rosicky's early goal decided the match: “They were out-played. Credit to them, but we out-played them and they’re title contenders.

“I think we were better than them, played well and created chances. We showed character. If you give me that between now and the end of the season no problem, we will be where we are meant to be.

“We played on the front foot and defended together. It was a wonder strike. I’m willing him [Rosicky] to shoot from that distance - but he put it in the top corner and there is nothing we can do about that.”

Sherwood lost his famously short temper on the touchline again and TV cameras showed him throwing off his gilet in a strop.

He also angrily threw the ball at Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna after getting fed-up of what he viewed as time-wasting.

But Sherwood insists he will never change his style and believes the White Hart Lane club is moving in the right direction under his management.

“I just want to wear my heart on my sleeve - when I wear them! It was too hot for that gilet anyway," he added.

"That’s me. It might get me in trouble at times - I’m sure it will. I can’t apologise for it and I can’t say it won’t ever happen again. I don’t even know why I was angry!

“Every manager would be the same, but I suppose I show it more than others. If we were all the same then this world would be very boring.

“I’ve got to show my emotions. If I didn’t then I’d be acting, and there’s too many actors in this game.

"I’m really up for the challenge of it. I knew we had to lose at some stage, lose games, and to lose three on the trot - very difficult games [Spurs lost away to Chelsea last weekend and to Benfica in the Europa League in midweek] - I think I’ve got the character for it. I want everyone to come along with me with that same belief and character.

“Some of these players are world class. Adebayor certainly is. He’s a true leader - and I think the goalie certainly is.

"I’m always on trial. That’s always been the case from all angles. I knew that would be the challenge but it’s one that I will relish."